As communities on California’s Central Coast navigate ICE raids issued by the Trump administration, the nonprofit C.A.R.E.4Paws and Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) have compiled essential strategies to help keep companion animals safe during emergencies, evacuations and other unexpected situations.
In Southern California alone, more than 1,000 arrests occurred in mid‑June, under a federal goal of 3,000 arrests per day, according to reports.
“As families are detained and/or deported, many family pets and barn animals are at risk of being left behind,” C.A.R.E.4Paws said.
A recent article in The Guardian highlights numerous such cases, including a story about a New York City family that got deported after an ICE raid and was unable to take their dog Benny, C.A.R.E.4Paws said. Benny was later rehomed through an informal local network on Facebook.
Leaving pets out of evacuation plans and other unforeseen circumstances can expose them to the risk of injury, loss or worse. C.A.R.E.4Paws and SBCAS are proponents of keeping pets healthy, safe, and with their families for life.
“Pets offer essential comfort and companionship, especially during hard times, but managing their care during evacuations or threats of sudden displacement can be incredibly difficult,” said Isabelle Gullö, C.A.R.E.4Paws’ co-founder/executive director.
“Fortunately, there are many ways to prepare for whatever challenges a pet family may encounter,” she said.
Having a plan in place when disaster strikes, whether a wildfire, flood or unexpected evacuation, ensures that no family member — two- or four-legged — is left behind, said Sarah Aguilar, director of SBCAS.
SBCA takes in evacuated pets at its three shelter locations during disasters and sometimes houses animals at larger facilities, such as Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara.
“Emergency situations unfold quickly, and pet owners may have only minutes to leave their homes,” Aguilar said. “Families can act swiftly and avoid unnecessary heartbreak by creating an evacuation plan that includes pets, complete with supplies, transportation and a safe destination.”
Aguilar emphasizes the importance of proactive planning for families at risk of sudden displacement.
“Emergencies can arise in various forms, not just from natural disasters. It’s essential for families to have a strategy in place for their pets to ensure their safety and care under any circumstances,” she said. “Identifying reliable caregivers and being aware of community resources in advance can significantly impact outcomes.”
Be prepared for possible displacement
Pets left behind may suddenly find themselves abandoned in homes without access to food, water or essential care.
How to be prepared for an evacuation
Create a plan for your pet that includes shelter options and ensures quick and easy access to all its needs when packing in a hurry.
Establish a plan with a trusted neighbor to evacuate your pet and essential supplies if an emergency occurs while you are away. Be sure to agree on a designated meeting spot in advance.
San Luis Obispo County: slocounty.ca.gov/departments/health-agency/animal-services/services-offered/dog-licensing
Since 2009, C.A.R.E.4Paws has supported pet families on the Central Coast, helping more than 25,000 pets annually with resources that keep them healthy and with their people for life.
The nonprofit relies on partnerships and community support to carry out its work. To get involved, visit care4paws.org/how-to-help.
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